#32 Red Suspenders

Gnome is where the heart is

Roger Swain gleefully accepts the moniker, garden gnome, as a term of endearment. Whether the 1980s Boston newspaper columnist who dubbed him such, meant it as a compliment is another story. Known by millions across TV's vast and somewhat fickle gardening world as The Man in the Red Suspenders, Roger hosted the granddaddy of all such shows, The Victory Garden on PBS for 15 years - well before high-def. My, how that technology would have indelibly painted those twinkling eyes and leprehaun-like smile. On this week's episode Roger and Paul Tukey reminisce over People, Places and Plants, The Gardening Show which became one of HGTV's highest-rated programs ever. Fast friends and kindred spirits of the soil, the pair co-hosted the show from 2002 to 2007. Wait until you hear the story of the day Roger showered with his plants- on camera! Biologist, author of five books including Earthly Pleasures, and master storyteller, Roger Swain is the a one-of-kind gem for the ages! Make sure you save this show to play for your grand kids!

Let's sue Canada

That's what Dow AgroSciences, the world's largest and richest chemical company, threatens to do if Canadian government doesn't reverse the ban on so-called cosmetic pesticides and other non-essential chemicals. Quebec and Ontario provinces have made it illegal to use the stuff on most public land, and private citizens are extending it to their properties. Dow charges the ban violates a clause in the North American Free Trade Agreement. Paul rants about Dow's warning shot, but thinks it actually will serve to galvanize public opinion in Canada and elsewhere against Big Chemical. Stay tuned!

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Next week...

Our season finale (we'll be back the first week of January '09) is LIVE from Norwich, CT where Paul is speaking to a group at Chelsea Gardens. Yes, his talk will be our show! Make a note of the day and time change...Tuesday, Oct. 28th at 7 p.m. Eastern. Hope to see you then!

Learn how you too can lead the crusade in your community to help "save our environment, one lawn at a time." Please visit us online at www.safelawns.org and www.safelawns.net.